EU supports preparation of new 400 kv Rrashbull–Fier transmission line

A Technical Assistance project has officially been launched to support the preparation of a Feasibility Study and Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) scoping for a new 400 kV electricity transmission line between Rrashbull and Fier in Albania.

Funded by the EU through the Western Balkans Investment Framework, the €900,000 technical assistance grant will support the ESIA process in two phases:

• Phase 1: Preparation of the ESIA Scoping Report, developed in parallel with the Feasibility Study under the current assignment.
• Phase 2: A full ESIA, to be completed in the next stage of project preparation under a separate assignment.

The kick‑off meeting for the project took place on 8 April 2026 and brought together representatives from the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure, the Albanian Transmission System Operator (OST), the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), and the IPF 11 project team.

As part of this initiative, OST plans to construct a new 400 kV overhead transmission line linking Rrashbull, Hoxhare, and Fier, with a total length of over 110 km. The new line will close the internal high‑voltage transmission ring, connect to the Fier–Greece cross‑border line, and support the integration of renewable energy by serving one of the country’s most densely populated photovoltaic (PV) generation areas.

Commenting on the project, Fajton Zekaj, representing the Albanian Transmission System Operator (OST), said: “There is an urgent need to upgrade the 220/110 kV Hoxhare substation to 400 kV level due to significant renewable energy development in the region.”

This project will play an important role in strengthening electricity transmission infrastructure in Albania and the wider region. It will contribute to improved security of supply, enhanced cross‑border electricity exchanges, and the development of the regional electricity market.

For more project details:

https://www.wbif.eu/technicalassistancegrants/WB31-ALB-ENE-01 

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About WBIF and Global Gateway

The Western Balkans Investment Framework (WBIF) contributes directly to Global Gateway, the EU’s strategy to boost smart, clean and secure connections in digital, energy and transport, while strengthening health, education and research systems worldwide. Global Gateway aims to mobilise up to €300 billion worldwide in investments through a Team Europe approach, bringing together the EU, its Member States and financial institutions to leverage investments for a transformational impact.